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Automation Project Engineer Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Automation Project Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$103K - $161K/yr

Join a growing team with this exciting opportunity for a Automation Project Engineer at our Boulder and Frederick, Colorado GMP facilities. Work at the forefront of the growing oligonucleotide (DNA ...

Automation Project Engineer

Boulder, CO · On-site

$103K - $161K/yr

... automation projects that expand capacity, improve operational efficiency, data integrity, and regulatory compliance in close collaboration with cross-functional teams, including Engineering ...

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Automation Project Engineer Central PA (Mansfield/Blossburg PA area) $75,000 - $125,000 Job ID #29180 Our client is a global manufacturing organization that is a recognized award-winning supplier ...

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Automation Project Engineer information

See salary details

$37K

$107.1K

$163K

How much do automation project engineer jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 26, 2026, the average yearly pay for automation project engineer in the United States is $107,126.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $86,500.00 and $123,500.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is an automation project engineer?

An Automation Project Engineer is a professional responsible for designing, implementing, and managing automated systems and processes within various industries, such as manufacturing, energy, or logistics. They oversee projects from conception to completion, ensuring that automation solutions meet technical requirements, budgets, and timelines. Their role often includes collaborating with clients, engineers, and technicians to optimize processes, increase efficiency, and reduce operational costs.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an automation project engineer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Automation Project Engineer, you need a solid background in engineering principles, project management, and automation systems, typically supported by a degree in electrical, mechanical, or automation engineering. Familiarity with PLC programming, SCADA systems, AutoCAD, and certifications like PMP or relevant automation credentials are often required. Strong problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills help you effectively manage projects and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams. These competencies are essential for delivering successful automation projects that meet technical, budgetary, and timeline requirements.

What are some common challenges faced by automation project engineers when managing multiple automation projects simultaneously?

Automation Project Engineers often juggle several projects at once, which can present challenges such as balancing shifting priorities, coordinating with multidisciplinary teams, and managing tight deadlines. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are essential to ensure projects stay on track and resources are shared efficiently. Additionally, adapting quickly to changes in project scope or unexpected technical hurdles is a key part of the role, often requiring close collaboration with controls engineers, software developers, and operations staff.

What is the difference between Automation Project Engineer vs Automation Engineer?

AspectAutomation Project EngineerAutomation Engineer
CredentialsBachelor's in Engineering, certifications like CAP, PMP (optional)Bachelor's in Engineering, certifications like CAP or related
Work EnvironmentProject sites, manufacturing plants, industrial facilitiesDesign offices, manufacturing environments, R&D labs
Employer & Industry UsageManufacturing, process industries, automation firmsIndustrial automation, robotics, control systems companies

The Automation Project Engineer typically manages automation projects from planning to completion, coordinating teams and ensuring timely delivery. In contrast, the Automation Engineer focuses on designing, developing, and testing automation systems. Both roles require technical expertise, but the Project Engineer emphasizes project management and execution, while the Automation Engineer concentrates on technical design and implementation.

More about Automation Project Engineer jobs

What states have the most Automation Project Engineer jobs?

States with the most job openings for Automation Project Engineer jobs include:

Infographic showing various Automation Project Engineer job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 88% Full Time, 8% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 83% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 12% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $107,126 per year, or $51.5 per hour.

Automation Project Engineer

VersaTech Automation Services

Houston, TX • On-site

Full-time

Posted 5 days ago


Job description

VersaTech Automation Services is a leading provider of automation systems and services to the global energy markets. VersaTech provides a full range of automation services including engineering, design, programming, fabrication, testing, installation, commissioning, start-up, and maintenance to a wide variety of control and packaged systems. VersaTech has offices in Houston, Midland, New Orleans, and Africa. Our scope of work includes both onshore and offshore projects, in the US and overseas.

The Automation Project Engineer is responsible for designing, implementing, maintaining, and optimizing automation and control systems, as well as managing projects from design through fabrication, testing, commissioning, and start-up. Applications for control and automation systems usually include offshore and onshore oil and gas production facilities, industrial process control & safety, data centers, and gas and liquid transmission. The Automation Project Engineer must ensure safe, efficient, and compliant operation of automation infrastructure including PLCs, SCADA, and instrumentation & communication systems while supporting project and operations teams.

This is an on-site position based at VersaTech?s Houston, Texas office.

This position will report to the Manager of Projects and Engineering. Primary responsibilities include but are not limited to:

  • Coordinate and report across upper management, drafting, procurement, fabrication, and sales department
  • Ensure design compliance with applicable industry and regulatory standards
  • Lead the engineering, design, configuration, testing, commissioning and maintenance of automation systems including PLCs, RTUs, HMI/SCADA systems and communication networks.
  • Program and configure PLC and HMI systems using a variety of industry-standard hardware and software platforms.
  • Develop and maintain control narratives, loop diagrams, P&IDs associated with automation systems, and documentation required for system validation and compliance.
  • Troubleshoot, optimize and upgrade existing automation systems to improve reliability, availability, and performance of production and processing facilities.
  • Participate in HAZOP and LOPA reviews and ensure automation systems meet safety, environmental and regulatory requirements (including IEC/ISA standards, API practices, OSHA).
  • Provide technical support for brownfield modifications and greenfield projects, including vendor oversight, FAT/SAT, site commissioning and start-up support.
  • Assist customers with the installation of automation devices such as control panels and instrumentation.
  • Provide Technical Support and Guidance to clients in order to suggest improved designs
  • Collaborate with Project Engineers and Project Managers for fully integrated packaged systems
  • Provide design parameters to the drafting/design department and manage the completion of design
  • Manage fabrication activities in accordance with VersaTech?s quality program and project schedule requirements
  • Actively support VersaTech?s commitment to a safe work environment by ensuring compliance with all safety policies and procedures
  • Interface with customers by providing job progress reports, participating in technical discussions, and managing RFIs and change orders; maintain clear and open communication to meet or exceed customer expectations
  • Coordinate with outside vendors, engineering firms, etc., should the need arise
  • Travel to remote sites both domestically and internationally for commissioning, start-up, repair and troubleshooting activities
  • Oversee project budgets and financial performance, including forecasting, planning, cost tracking, customer billing, and vendor invoice approval
  • Other tasks as defined by the Manager of Projects and Engineering